Case Studies

In January 2013 the Special Rapporteur launched an inquiry into the use of remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs), or drones, in extra-territorial lethal counter-terrorism operations, including in the context of asymmetrical armed conflict. The central objective of the inquiry is to evaluate allegations that the increasing use of RPAs has caused disproportionate civilian casualties, and to make recommendations concerning the duty of States to conduct independent and impartial investigations.

With the assistance of a team of researchers the Special Rapporteur has identified 30 sample RPA strikes which appear to have resulted in civilian casualties. Whilst the fact that civilians have been killed or injured does not necessarily point to a violation of international humanitarian law, it undoubtedly raises issues of accountability and transparency. Where possible, the Special Rapporteur's team has assembled direct evidence on individual strikes.